Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Molecular Pharmacology

Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Molecular Pharmacology 1. Efficacy vs. Potency One of the most common confusions in pharmacology is between efficacy and potency. Efficacy refers to the maximum effect a drug can produce, while potency is the amount of drug required to produce a specific effect. In simpler terms, efficacy is about how well a drug works, while potency is about how much of the drug is needed to achieve that effect. 2. Side Effect vs. Adverse Effect Side effects and adverse effects are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Side effects are unintended, usually mild, and often expected effects of a drug. On the other hand, adverse effects are more severe, unexpected, and sometimes life-threatening. It's important for healthcare professionals to differentiate between the two to ensure patient safety. 3. Pharmacokinetics vs. Pharmacodynamics Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics are two fundamental concepts in pharmacology. Pharmacokinetics deals with how a drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted by the body. Pharmacodynamics, on the other hand, focuses on the drug's mechanism of action and the resulting therapeutic effects. In simple terms, pharmacokinetics is about what the body does to the drug, while pharmacodynamics is about what the drug does to the body. 4. Tolerance vs. Dependence